Mental Health Fair

Turning Darkness into Light is a mental health fair commemorating the 30th anniversary of the closing of Dammasch State Hospital. It takes place on Saturday, May 3, noon-3 pm at the Piazza in Villebois.

The event is being organized and hosted by Wilsonville resident Tabi Traughber’s newly-established non-profit, Resilience Events, to build connections and to support the mental  health and well-being of Wilsonville and its residents. Mayor Shawn O’Neil will kick off the event by formally recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month in Wilsonville.

This family-friendly event features guest speakers and performance artists, as well as food trucks, Kona Ice, bounce houses, art therapy stations and interactive booths. Mental health agencies and affiliates are providing resources, as well as referral services. Local sponsors, vendors and self-care organizations are also represented.

Speakers will address issues related to mental health, mental illness, and the history of Dammasch, which operated from 1961-1995 at a location that is now home to Villebois. Inspired by her own experiences, including losing her sister and others to suicide, Traughber intends to turn this occasion into an annual event.

This event is funded in part by a $3,500 Community Opportunity Grant from Wilsonville Parks and Recreation.